As de Gadir

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As the cornerstone of Gadir (Cádiz), dating back to the 2nd century BC, this coin embodies the distinctive features of Phoenician typology. Reproduction of "The Roman Bética Route" Obverse: A majestic Melqart-Hércules, wrapped in a lion's skin, stands proudly at left; a mighty club rests on his left shoulder. Reverse: Two tuna fish swim together to the left. Between their heads, an external crescent moon is inscribed with a central dot, accompanied by the Hebrew letter "aleph" and a second dot; above, the Phoenician legend reads "m´pl," while below it says "'gdr." Melqart-Hércules-Hércules: A protector of sailors and merchants, benefactor of crops, guardian of travelers and warriors as a military deity, and custodian of wealth. Tuna Fish: A testament to Gadir's lucrative fishing industry and salted fish trade, tuna is a recurring motif in Phoenician culture. Crescent Moon and Dot: Symbols of lunar and solar energies respectively, these represent the celestial nature of the deities worshipped throughout the Hispano-Phoenician cultural sphere. ("The Coins of Roman Bética". J. A. Sáez Bolaño and J. M. Blanco Villero. 1996)